Preferring traces of ink on Hanji paper to washes of oil on canvas, Young Sup Han (b. 1941) has been labeled as the ‘Hanji' artist’. The title is meaningful to him as he was originally trained in western style painting, yet Han has firmly dedicated his work to the Hanji paper for the majority of his career. As his determination for this particular medium has been widely acknowledged as an effective method in revealing Korean aesthetics and its formality, the world’s interest in his works is increasing day by day. He is renowned as a master of ‘rubbing art,’ capturing the essence of nature on the traditional Korean material of Hanji paper. He uses natural materials such as stones, twigs, perilla leaves, and corn stalks to create his works. His rubbing methods contour the plant repeatedly, giving birth to a dynamic surface. Composed solely of lines, Han’s work showcases the characteristics of Korean aesthetics.

SELECTED GROUP EXHIBITIONS

2017
Gyeonggi Museum of Modern Art

2015
Museum SAN

2011
Schema Art Museum

2009
Yongeun Museum of Contemporary Art

2008
Seoul Museum of Art

1997
Walkerhill Art Center

1993
Total Museum

1986
National Museum of Contemporary Art

1978
National Museum of Contemporary Art